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A1 verb #1,500 सबसे आम 14 मिनट पढ़ने का समय

Pagar

शीर्ष 1,500

इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव Pagar 30 सेकंड में

व्याख्या Pagar in your Level:

At the A1 level, learning the verb 'pagar' is absolutely essential for basic survival and communication in any Spanish-speaking country. As a beginner, your primary focus should be on mastering the present tense conjugations and understanding how to use the verb in simple, everyday transactions. The present tense forms are straightforward: yo pago (I pay), tú pagas (you pay), él/ella/usted paga (he/she/you formal pays), nosotros/nosotras pagamos (we pay), vosotros/vosotras pagáis (you all pay, used in Spain), and ellos/ellas/ustedes pagan (they/you all pay). You will use these forms constantly when shopping, eating at restaurants, or buying tickets. For example, you might say 'Yo pago la cuenta' (I pay the bill) or ask a cashier '¿Dónde pago?' (Where do I pay?). At this stage, it is also crucial to learn basic vocabulary related to money to accompany the verb, such as 'dinero' (money), 'efectivo' (cash), and 'tarjeta' (card). You should practice simple phrases like 'Quiero pagar en efectivo' (I want to pay in cash) or '¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta?' (Can I pay with a card?). These fundamental structures will allow you to navigate basic commercial interactions confidently. Do not worry too much about complex grammar rules yet; focus on being understood and understanding the responses you receive when it comes time to settle a bill. Repetition of these core phrases is key to building your confidence.

Moving into the A2 level, your ability to use 'pagar' expands significantly as you begin to talk about past and future events. You will need to learn the preterite (simple past) tense to discuss things you have already bought. This introduces a crucial spelling change: in the 'yo' form, 'pagar' becomes 'pagué' to maintain the hard 'g' sound. The other forms are regular: pagaste, pagó, pagamos, pagasteis, pagaron. You can now say things like 'Ayer pagué la cena' (Yesterday I paid for dinner) or '¿Pagaste el alquiler?' (Did you pay the rent?). Additionally, you will start using the 'ir a + infinitive' structure to talk about future payments, such as 'Voy a pagar mañana' (I am going to pay tomorrow). At this level, you should also become comfortable using the preposition 'por' when expressing what you are paying for, as in 'Pago por los zapatos' (I pay for the shoes). You will also encounter direct and indirect object pronouns more frequently. For instance, instead of repeating the noun, you might say 'Lo pago' (I pay it) or 'Le pago al camarero' (I pay the waiter). Expanding your vocabulary to include common bills and expenses—like 'la luz' (electricity), 'el agua' (water), and 'el boleto' (ticket)—will allow you to construct more detailed and useful sentences in your daily life.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

At the B1 level, your mastery of 'pagar' deepens as you encounter more complex grammatical structures, particularly the subjunctive mood and the conditional tense. You will start expressing hopes, doubts, and recommendations regarding payments. For example, you might say 'Espero que él pague la cuenta' (I hope he pays the bill) or 'Te recomiendo que pagues a tiempo' (I recommend that you pay on time). Notice that the present subjunctive forms (pague, pagues, pague, paguemos, paguéis, paguen) all require the 'gu' spelling change to maintain the correct pronunciation. You will also use the conditional tense to talk about hypothetical situations, such as 'Yo pagaría, pero no tengo dinero' (I would pay, but I don't have money). At this intermediate stage, your vocabulary related to finances should expand to include terms like 'impuestos' (taxes), 'multa' (fine), 'hipoteca' (mortgage), and 'préstamo' (loan). You will be able to engage in more sophisticated conversations about personal finance, budgeting, and economic responsibilities. Furthermore, you will begin to understand and use 'pagar' in slightly more abstract or metaphorical contexts, such as 'pagar las consecuencias' (to pay the consequences). This level is all about adding nuance and flexibility to your communication, allowing you to express not just facts, but opinions, conditions, and emotions related to financial transactions.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

Reaching the B2 level means you are comfortable using 'pagar' in almost any standard situation, and your focus shifts to idiomatic expressions, advanced vocabulary, and flawless grammatical execution. You will effortlessly navigate complex tenses like the past subjunctive and the conditional perfect. For instance, 'Si tuviera dinero, pagaría la deuda' (If I had money, I would pay the debt) or 'Me molestó que no pagaran su parte' (It bothered me that they didn't pay their share). At this level, you should be familiar with a wide range of idioms that use 'pagar'. A classic example is 'pagar el pato', which means to take the blame or suffer the consequences for something you didn't do. Another is 'pagar con la misma moneda' (to give someone a taste of their own medicine). You will also be able to discuss complex financial and legal concepts, using related verbs like 'abonar', 'liquidar', and 'costear' to add precision to your speech. You can comfortably read news articles about economics, understanding phrases like 'pagar a plazos' (to pay in installments) or 'pagar al contado' (to pay in full/cash). Your understanding of the cultural nuances surrounding money and paying in different Spanish-speaking regions will also be much sharper, allowing you to navigate social situations—like splitting a bill or treating friends—with the grace and politeness of a native speaker.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

At the C1 advanced level, your use of 'pagar' is sophisticated, precise, and highly nuanced. You are expected to understand and utilize the verb in highly formal, academic, legal, and literary contexts. You can effortlessly comprehend complex financial reports, legal contracts, and economic analyses where 'pagar' and its derivatives are used extensively. You will use advanced structures like the passive voice ('La deuda fue pagada por la empresa') and impersonal constructions ('Se paga un alto precio por la fama'). Your vocabulary includes highly specific financial terminology, such as 'pagaré' (promissory note), 'pago por adelantado' (upfront payment), 'remuneración' (remuneration), and 'amortizar' (to amortize). You can engage in deep, abstract discussions about the philosophical or societal implications of paying, such as the concept of 'pagar una deuda con la sociedad' (paying a debt to society) in the context of criminal justice. Furthermore, you are fully aware of regional variations and colloquialisms across the Spanish-speaking world, understanding slang terms for paying without necessarily using them in formal speech. Your command of the subjunctive in all its past and perfect forms is flawless, allowing you to express highly complex hypothetical scenarios regarding financial obligations. At this level, 'pagar' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a tool you use with the same dexterity and subtle understanding as an educated native speaker.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

At the C2 mastery level, your command of 'pagar' and its entire semantic field is virtually indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You possess an intuitive grasp of the verb's most obscure literary uses, historical contexts, and subtle connotations. You can analyze classic Spanish literature, poetry, and historical documents, understanding how the concept of 'pagar' reflects societal values, honor, and duty across different eras. You effortlessly employ the most complex and elegant grammatical structures, such as the future subjunctive (e.g., 'quien no pagare la multa será sancionado'), which is primarily found in legal texts and formal decrees. Your ability to play with language allows you to create your own metaphors and rhetorical devices using 'pagar' in persuasive speech or creative writing. You understand the deep etymological roots of the word (from Latin 'pacare', to pacify or appease) and how that history influences its modern usage. In professional settings, you can negotiate intricate international contracts, discuss macroeconomic policies, and navigate the highest levels of corporate finance with absolute precision. You are also acutely aware of the sociolinguistic aspects of the word, knowing exactly how the choice of 'pagar' versus a synonym like 'sufragar' or 'desembolsar' alters the tone, register, and perceived social class of the speaker. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, 'pagar' is fully integrated into your expansive, sophisticated Spanish lexicon.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव

Pagar 30 सेकंड में

The primary Spanish verb for giving money in exchange for goods or services.
Requires the preposition 'por' when indicating what you are buying (pagar por algo).
Has a spelling change in the preterite tense 'yo' form: 'pagué' instead of 'pagé'.
Often used metaphorically to mean suffering the consequences of an action.

The verb 'pagar' is one of the most fundamental and frequently used verbs in the Spanish language, serving as the primary means to express the exchange of money for goods, services, or the settlement of debts. Understanding 'pagar' is absolutely essential for anyone learning Spanish, as it forms the cornerstone of almost all commercial, social, and economic transactions you will encounter in daily life. Whether you are purchasing a simple cup of coffee at a local café, buying tickets for a train journey across the beautiful landscapes of Spain, or settling a complex business contract in Latin America, 'pagar' is the word you will rely on.

Literal Meaning: To give money to someone for something you want to buy or for services provided.

The action it describes is universal, yet the cultural nuances surrounding how and when we pay can vary significantly across different Spanish-speaking regions. In many Hispanic cultures, the act of paying is not merely a cold financial transaction but a deeply social interaction that requires specific etiquette, polite expressions, and a keen understanding of local customs.

Yo siempre prefiero pagar en efectivo cuando compro en el mercado local.

For instance, insisting on paying the bill at a restaurant can be seen as a gesture of immense hospitality and generosity, often leading to a friendly, spirited argument over who gets the privilege of covering the cost. This social dynamic elevates the verb 'pagar' from a mere economic term to a vital component of interpersonal relationships and social bonding. Furthermore, the evolution of money and payment methods has dramatically expanded the contexts in which 'pagar' is used. From the ancient times of bartering and trading physical gold coins to the modern era of digital wallets, contactless credit cards, and cryptocurrencies, the verb has seamlessly adapted to describe all forms of financial settlement.

Digital Context: Using apps or online platforms to transfer funds electronically.

Understanding 'pagar' also opens the door to comprehending a wide array of related vocabulary, such as 'dinero' (money), 'efectivo' (cash), 'tarjeta de crédito' (credit card), and 'factura' (invoice).

Tenemos que pagar la factura de la luz antes del viernes.

As you delve deeper into the meaning of this indispensable verb, you will discover its metaphorical uses as well. For example, one might 'pay' for their mistakes ('pagar por los errores') or 'pay' the consequences of a bad decision ('pagar las consecuencias').

El criminal tendrá que pagar por sus crímenes en la cárcel.

It is important to note that while in English we say 'pay attention', in Spanish we use a completely different verb, 'prestar atención', so 'pagar atención' is incorrect. Therefore, grasping the full scope of 'pagar' is a critical milestone in your journey to fluency, enabling you to navigate the practicalities of life while also appreciating the subtle cultural undercurrents that accompany the exchange of value.

Metaphorical Use: To suffer the consequences of an action or to atone for a mistake.

The verb is regular in the present tense but has a spelling change in the preterite 'yo' form (pagué) to maintain the hard 'g' sound.

Ayer yo pagué todas mis deudas pendientes.

This orthographic adjustment is common among verbs ending in -gar, such as jugar (jugué) and llegar (llegué). Mastering these conjugations will ensure that you can confidently discuss past purchases, current expenses, and future financial plans.

Mañana nosotros vamos a pagar el alquiler del apartamento.

Ultimately, 'pagar' is a verb of action, responsibility, and exchange, deeply woven into the fabric of everyday Spanish communication.

Using the verb 'pagar' correctly involves understanding its syntax, its transitivity, and the specific prepositions that often accompany it. As a transitive verb, 'pagar' typically takes a direct object, which is the thing being paid for or the amount of money being handed over.

Direct Object: The item, service, or amount of money that is being transferred. Example: Pagar la cuenta.

For example, in the sentence 'Yo pago la cuenta' (I pay the bill), 'la cuenta' is the direct object. You can also specify the amount of money: 'Pago cincuenta euros' (I pay fifty euros).

Ella quiere pagar los boletos para el concierto de esta noche.

When you want to indicate the person who is receiving the payment, you use an indirect object pronoun. For instance, 'Le pago al cajero' (I pay the cashier), where 'le' refers to the cashier. One of the most critical aspects of using 'pagar' is knowing which preposition to use when expressing the reason for the payment. In Spanish, you almost always use the preposition 'por' to mean 'for' in the context of an exchange.

Pagar por: Used to indicate the exchange of money for a specific item or service.

Therefore, 'I pay for the book' translates to 'Pago por el libro'. Using 'para' in this context is a very common mistake among English speakers and sounds unnatural to native ears.

¿Cuánto vas a pagar por ese coche nuevo?

However, 'pagar' can also be used without 'por' when the item itself is the direct object, as in 'Pago el libro' (I pay [for] the book). Both 'Pago el libro' and 'Pago por el libro' are correct, but they have slightly different structural feels, though the practical meaning is identical.

Nosotros preferimos pagar la cena con tarjeta de crédito.

When discussing the method of payment, the preposition 'en' or 'con' is used. You say 'pagar en efectivo' (to pay in cash) but 'pagar con tarjeta' (to pay with a card).

Payment Methods: Use 'en' for cash (en efectivo) and 'con' for cards or apps (con tarjeta, con el móvil).

Conjugation-wise, 'pagar' is a regular -ar verb in the present tense: yo pago, tú pagas, él/ella/usted paga, nosotros/nosotras pagamos, vosotros/vosotras pagáis, ellos/ellas/ustedes pagan.

Mis padres siempre pagan sus impuestos a tiempo.

However, as mentioned earlier, you must be careful with the preterite tense and the present subjunctive. In the preterite, 'yo pagué' requires the 'u' to keep the hard 'g' sound. Without the 'u', 'pagé' would be pronounced with a soft 'g' (like an English 'h'), which is incorrect. This same spelling change occurs throughout the entire present subjunctive tense: que yo pague, que tú pagues, que él pague, que nosotros paguemos, que vosotros paguéis, que ellos paguen.

Espero que el jefe me pague mi salario hoy mismo.

Understanding these grammatical rules and syntactic structures will allow you to use 'pagar' fluently and accurately in any situation, from casual shopping to formal business negotiations.

The verb 'pagar' is ubiquitous in the Spanish-speaking world, echoing through a vast array of environments and contexts. You will hear it most frequently in commercial settings, such as supermarkets, boutiques, restaurants, and local markets.

Retail Environments: Stores, shops, and markets where goods are exchanged for money.

When you approach the checkout counter, the cashier might ask, '¿Cómo va a pagar?' (How are you going to pay?), prompting you to choose between cash, card, or digital payment.

Disculpe, ¿dónde puedo pagar estos artículos?

In restaurants, the end of a meal is inevitably accompanied by the request, 'La cuenta, por favor' (The bill, please), followed by the physical act of paying. You might hear friends debating, 'Hoy pago yo' (Today I pay) or 'Vamos a pagar a medias' (Let's split the bill). Beyond daily commerce, 'pagar' is heavily used in administrative and domestic contexts. Adults frequently discuss the necessity of paying bills: 'pagar la luz' (pay the electricity), 'pagar el agua' (pay the water), or 'pagar el alquiler' (pay the rent).

A fin de mes, siempre tengo que pagar muchas facturas.

In the workplace, employees eagerly anticipate the day their employers 'pagan el sueldo' (pay the salary).

Professional Context: Discussions regarding salaries, wages, invoices, and corporate expenses.

The verb also permeates popular culture, appearing in countless songs, movies, and television shows. In telenovelas, dramatic scenes often involve characters threatening that someone will 'pagar por lo que hizo' (pay for what they did), showcasing the metaphorical use of the word related to revenge or justice.

Te juro que vas a pagar muy caro por esta traición.

In news broadcasts, journalists report on governments 'pagando la deuda externa' (paying the foreign debt) or citizens 'pagando impuestos' (paying taxes). Furthermore, you will encounter 'pagar' in various idiomatic expressions. For example, 'pagar el pato' literally translates to 'pay the duck', but it means to take the blame or suffer the consequences for something you didn't do.

Idiomatic Expressions: Phrases where the meaning of 'pagar' extends beyond literal financial transactions.

Another common phrase is 'pagar con la misma moneda' (to pay with the same coin), which is equivalent to giving someone a taste of their own medicine.

No es justo que yo tenga que pagar el pato por tus errores.

Whether you are navigating a bustling market in Mexico City, setting up a bank account in Madrid, or simply watching a Spanish series on Netflix, the verb 'pagar' will be a constant companion, reflecting the universal human activities of trade, responsibility, and consequence.

Si quieres entrar al museo, tienes que pagar la entrada en la taquilla.

Immersing yourself in these varied contexts will rapidly solidify your understanding and natural usage of this indispensable verb.

While 'pagar' is a relatively straightforward verb, learners of Spanish frequently stumble over a few common pitfalls, primarily related to prepositions, false friends, and spelling irregularities. The most prevalent mistake among English speakers is the incorrect use of prepositions when translating 'to pay for'.

Preposition Error: Using 'para' instead of 'por' when indicating an exchange.

Because 'para' often translates to 'for', beginners instinctively say 'pago para el libro' (I pay for the book). However, in Spanish, the preposition 'por' is used to denote an exchange or substitution. Therefore, the correct phrasing is 'pago por el libro'.

Incorrecto: Pago para la comida. Correcto: Pago por la comida, o simplemente pago la comida.

Alternatively, you can omit the preposition entirely and use the item as a direct object: 'pago el libro'. Another significant area of confusion involves the English phrase 'to pay attention'. Translating this literally as 'pagar atención' is a classic false friend mistake that will immediately mark you as a non-native speaker. The correct verb to use in this context is 'prestar' (to lend), resulting in 'prestar atención'.

Los estudiantes deben prestar atención, no pagar atención, en clase.

Spelling errors in conjugations also trip up many learners. Because 'pagar' ends in -gar, it undergoes an orthographic change in certain tenses to preserve the hard 'g' sound.

Spelling Change: Changing 'g' to 'gu' before 'e' in the preterite and present subjunctive.

In the first-person singular (yo) of the preterite tense, the correct spelling is 'pagué'. Writing 'pagé' is incorrect because the 'g' before an 'e' makes a soft, breathy sound (like the English 'h'), altering the pronunciation of the word entirely.

Ayer yo pagué la cuenta del restaurante con mi tarjeta.

This same rule applies to the entire present subjunctive tense (pague, pagues, pague, etc.). Furthermore, learners sometimes confuse 'pagar' with 'invitar' in social situations. While 'yo pago' is perfectly fine, saying 'te invito' is much more natural and polite when you are treating someone.

Social Nuance: Using 'invitar' instead of 'pagar' to express treating someone to food or drinks.

Lastly, be careful with the pronunciation. The emphasis in the infinitive is on the second syllable (pa-GAR), but in the present tense 'yo' form, it shifts to the first syllable (PA-go).

Siempre me olvido de pagar la suscripción del gimnasio a tiempo.

By being mindful of these common mistakes—using 'por' instead of 'para', avoiding 'pagar atención', remembering the 'u' in 'pagué', and understanding the social use of 'invitar'—you will sound much more natural and proficient in Spanish.

Es importante saber cómo pagar correctamente en diferentes situaciones culturales.

Practice these specific areas to build confidence in your daily interactions.

While 'pagar' is the most general and widely used verb for paying, the Spanish language boasts a rich vocabulary of similar words and synonyms that offer more precision depending on the context. Understanding these nuances will elevate your Spanish from basic to advanced.

Abonar: To pay an installment, to credit an account, or to fertilize land. It is often used in formal or banking contexts.

One common synonym is 'abonar'. While it can mean to fertilize soil, in financial contexts, it means to pay an installment, to credit an account, or to settle a specific amount. You might hear 'abonar una cuota' (to pay an installment).

El cliente debe abonar el saldo restante antes de fin de mes, en lugar de solo pagar el mínimo.

Another related verb is 'costear', which means to finance or to cover the costs of something, often implying a significant expense over time, such as 'costear los estudios' (to pay for one's studies). 'Liquidar' is used when you are paying off a debt completely or settling an account in full. It has a sense of finality, such as 'liquidar una deuda' (to liquidate/pay off a debt).

Liquidar: To settle an account completely or pay off a debt in full.

Similarly, 'saldar' means to settle or clear a debt, often used interchangeably with liquidar in financial contexts.

Por fin pude saldar mi hipoteca y ya no tengo que pagar más al banco.

On the other side of the transaction, we have verbs like 'comprar' (to buy) and 'gastar' (to spend). While 'pagar' focuses on the transfer of money, 'comprar' focuses on the acquisition of the item, and 'gastar' focuses on the depletion of one's funds. For instance, 'Gasto mucho dinero cuando voy al centro comercial' (I spend a lot of money when I go to the mall).

Gastar: To spend money, consume resources, or sometimes to waste.

Another interesting related word is 'remunerar', which is a formal term meaning to remunerate or compensate someone for their work or services.

La empresa debe remunerar justamente a sus empleados, no solo pagar el salario mínimo.

In colloquial speech, you might hear slang terms for paying, such as 'aflojar la mosca' (literally 'loosen the fly', meaning to cough up the money) in some regions, or 'desembolsar' (to disburse or fork out money).

Tuve que desembolsar una gran cantidad para pagar la reparación del coche.

By expanding your vocabulary to include these synonyms and related terms, you will be able to express financial concepts with much greater accuracy and sophistication, tailoring your language to fit formal, informal, or highly specific contexts perfectly.

Es mejor ahorrar que tener que pagar intereses altos por deudas innecesarias.

Mastering this semantic field is a clear sign of advancing proficiency in the Spanish language.

How Formal Is It?

कठिनाई स्तर

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

Verbs ending in -gar change g to gu before e (pagué, pague).

Use 'por' for exchanges (pagar por).

Personal 'a' is used when the indirect object is a person (pagar a Juan).

Direct object pronouns (lo, la, los, las) can replace the item paid for.

Indirect object pronouns (le, les) replace the person being paid.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

Yo pago la cuenta en el restaurante.

I pay the bill in the restaurant.

Present tense, first person singular (yo pago).

¿Tú pagas en efectivo o con tarjeta?

Do you pay in cash or with a card?

Present tense, second person singular (tú pagas).

Él paga el café todos los días.

He pays for the coffee every day.

Present tense, third person singular (él paga).

Nosotros pagamos los boletos del cine.

We pay for the cinema tickets.

Present tense, first person plural (nosotros pagamos).

Ellos pagan mucho dinero por la casa.

They pay a lot of money for the house.

Present tense, third person plural (ellos pagan).

¿Dónde pago la fruta?

Where do I pay for the fruit?

Using 'dónde' to ask for the payment location.

Ella no paga el autobús.

She does not pay for the bus.

Negative sentence structure with 'no' before the verb.

Yo quiero pagar ahora, por favor.

I want to pay now, please.

Infinitive form used after the conjugated verb 'querer'.

Ayer yo pagué la luz y el agua.

Yesterday I paid the electricity and water.

Preterite tense, first person singular. Note the spelling change: pagué.

¿Pagaste tú la cena anoche?

Did you pay for dinner last night?

Preterite tense, second person singular (pagaste).

Mi madre pagó los libros de la escuela.

My mother paid for the school books.

Preterite tense, third person singular (pagó).

Mañana voy a pagar el alquiler.

Tomorrow I am going to pay the rent.

Future construction using 'ir a + infinitive'.

Nosotros pagamos por la habitación del hotel.

We paid for the hotel room.

Preterite tense, first person plural (pagamos). Note the use of 'por'.

Ellos no pagaron la multa de tráfico.

They did not pay the traffic ticket.

Preterite tense, third person plural (pagaron).

Siempre pagaba con monedas cuando era niño.

I always paid with coins when I was a child.

Imperfect tense (pagaba) for habitual past actions.

¿Cuánto pagaste por esa camisa?

How much did you pay for that shirt?

Question word 'cuánto' combined with the preposition 'por'.

Espero que mi jefe me pague hoy.

I hope my boss pays me today.

Present subjunctive (pague) triggered by 'espero que'.

Te recomiendo que pagues tus deudas pronto.

I recommend that you pay your debts soon.

Present subjunctive (pagues) triggered by 'recomiendo que'.

Yo pagaría el viaje, pero no tengo ahorros.

I would pay for the trip, but I don't have savings.

Conditional tense (pagaría) for hypothetical situations.

Es importante pagar los impuestos a tiempo.

It is important to pay taxes on time.

Impersonal expression 'es importante' followed by the infinitive.

Cuando paguemos la hipoteca, seremos libres.

When we pay the mortgage, we will be free.

Present subjunctive (paguemos) used after 'cuando' for future events.

Me pidió que pagara la mitad de la gasolina.

He asked me to pay half of the gas.

Imperfect subjunctive (pagara) triggered by a past tense request.

Ya hemos pagado todas las facturas de este mes.

We have already paid all the bills for this month.

Present perfect tense (hemos pagado).

Si pagas en efectivo, te hacen un descuento.

If you pay in cash, they give you a discount.

First conditional sentence (Si + present, present).

Si tuviera más dinero, pagaría un seguro mejor.

If I had more money, I would pay for better insurance.

Second conditional (Si + imperfect subjunctive, conditional).

No es justo que yo siempre pague el pato.

It's not fair that I always take the blame (pay the duck).

Idiomatic expression 'pagar el pato' in the subjunctive.

Habrían pagado la fianza si hubieran podido.

They would have paid the bail if they had been able to.

Third conditional (conditional perfect + pluperfect subjunctive).

Me indigna que no hayan pagado a los trabajadores.

It outrages me that they haven't paid the workers.

Present perfect subjunctive (hayan pagado) expressing emotion.

El criminal terminará pagando por sus delitos.

The criminal will end up paying for his crimes.

Gerund (pagando) used with 'terminar' to express an eventual outcome.

Prefiero pagar a plazos que descapitalizarme.

I prefer to pay in installments rather than deplete my capital.

Advanced vocabulary 'pagar a plazos' (installments).

Aunque pague el doble, quiero el mejor servicio.

Even if I pay double, I want the best service.

Concessive clause with 'aunque' + subjunctive for a hypothetical.

La empresa se comprometió a pagar una indemnización.

The company committed to paying compensation.

Infinitive used after the preposition 'a' following a reflexive verb.

La deuda fue pagada en su totalidad por el avalista.

The debt was paid in full by the guarantor.

Passive voice (fue pagada) used in a formal legal/financial context.

Es imperativo que la factura se pague antes del vencimiento.

It is imperative that the invoice be paid before the due date.

Impersonal passive with 'se' in the subjunctive (se pague).

Quien a hierro mata, a hierro termina pagando.

He who lives by the sword, dies by the sword (ends up paying).

Proverbial use adapting a common saying with the gerund.

La sociedad exige que los corruptos paguen con cárcel.

Society demands that the corrupt pay with jail time.

Subjunctive used for strong demands in a sociopolitical context.

Se ha estipulado que el canon se pagará anualmente.

It has been stipulated that the fee will be paid annually.

Formal future tense (pagará) in a legal stipulation.

De haberlo sabido, no habría pagado un precio tan exorbitante.

Had I known, I would not have paid such an exorbitant price.

Advanced conditional structure using 'De haberlo sabido'.

El gobierno busca mecanismos para que los evasores paguen.

The government is seeking mechanisms so that evaders pay.

Subjunctive (paguen) expressing purpose after 'para que'.

Abonó la cantidad requerida para no tener que pagar recargos.

He remitted the required amount to avoid having to pay surcharges.

Use of synonym 'abonar' alongside 'pagar' to avoid repetition.

Quien no pagare los tributos en el plazo fijado, será embargado.

Whoever shall not pay the taxes within the set period will be embargoed.

Future subjunctive (pagare), rarely used except in strict legal texts.

El héroe trágico siempre acaba pagando el precio de su hibris.

The tragic hero always ends up paying the price for his hubris.

Literary and philosophical use of 'pagar' in literary analysis.

Se resarció del daño, pagando con creces el sufrimiento causado.

He made amends for the damage, paying more than enough for the suffering caused.

Advanced idiom 'pagar con creces' (to pay abundantly/more than enough).

La redención del personaje se logra al pagar su deuda kármica.

The character's redemption is achieved upon paying his karmic debt.

Abstract, metaphorical use of 'pagar' in a spiritual/literary context.

Habiendo pagado su condena, se reintegró a la vida civil.

Having served (paid) his sentence, he reintegrated into civil life.

Perfect participle (Habiendo pagado) used as an absolute clause.

Es una falacia creer que el bienestar se puede pagar con dinero.

It is a fallacy to believe that well-being can be bought (paid for) with money.

Philosophical discourse using 'pagar' to discuss abstract values.

El tratado estipulaba las reparaciones que la nación vencida debía pagar.

The treaty stipulated the reparations that the defeated nation had to pay.

Historical and geopolitical context using formal vocabulary.

Su insolencia la pagó muy cara en los círculos aristocráticos.

He paid very dearly for his insolence in aristocratic circles.

Idiomatic 'pagar caro' used in a nuanced social context.

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

pagar en efectivo

pagar con tarjeta

pagar la cuenta

pagar a plazos

pagar por adelantado

pagar impuestos

pagar el alquiler

pagar una multa

pagar al contado

pagar el pato

सामान्य वाक्यांश

¿Cuánto hay que pagar?

Yo pago la ronda

Pagar a medias

Pagar el precio

Pagar los platos rotos

No tener con qué pagar

Pagar con la misma moneda

Hacer pagar

Pagar por ver

Pagar la novatada

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

Pagar vs Invitar (to treat someone)

Pagar vs Prestar (to lend, used for 'pay attention')

Pagar vs Gastar (to spend)

मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ

"Pagar el pato"

"Pagar los platos rotos"

"Pagar con la misma moneda"

"Pagar justos por pecadores"

"Pagar a tocateja"

"Pagar el piso"

"Pagar la novatada"

"Pagar el peaje"

"Pagar en carnes"

"Pagar caro"

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

Pagar vs

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

सभी उदाहरण देखने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

note

While 'pagar' is transitive, it is often used intransitively in context when the object is understood, e.g., 'Ya pagué' (I already paid).

सामान्य गलतियाँ

Saying 'pago para el libro' instead of 'pago por el libro'.
Writing 'pagé' instead of 'pagué' in the past tense.
Translating 'pay attention' literally as 'pagar atención'.
Saying 'yo pago por ti' instead of 'te invito' when treating a friend.
Confusing the pronunciation of 'pago' (I pay) and 'pagó' (he/she paid).

सुझाव

The 'U' is Silent but Deadly Important

Always remember to add the 'u' in 'pagué' and 'pague'. Without it, the pronunciation changes completely. It is a silent protector of the hard 'g' sound. Practice writing out the preterite and subjunctive conjugations to build muscle memory.

Por vs Para Rule of Thumb

When money is changing hands for an item, always use 'por'. Think of 'por' as the bridge that connects your money to the item you are receiving. Never use 'para' for a financial exchange.

The Art of 'Invitar'

In Spanish-speaking cultures, fighting over the bill is a sport. If you want to treat someone, beat them to the punch by saying 'Te invito' early on. It shows generosity and cultural fluency.

Watch the Accent Marks

Pay close attention to the stress. 'PA-go' means 'I pay' (present). 'Pa-GÓ' means 'he/she paid' (past). Misplacing the verbal stress can completely confuse the person you are talking to.

Direct Object Shortcut

You don't always need 'por'. Saying 'Pago el café' is just as correct and often more common than 'Pago por el café'. Treat the item you are buying as the direct object of the verb.

Don't Pay the Duck

Memorize the phrase 'pagar el pato'. It is used constantly in everyday conversation, movies, and TV shows. Knowing this idiom will make you sound much more like a native speaker.

Lend, Don't Pay Attention

Erase 'pagar atención' from your brain. Write 'prestar atención' on a sticky note and put it on your mirror. This is one of the most stubborn mistakes English speakers make.

Catching the Fast 'Efectivo'

Native speakers talk fast. 'Pagar en efectivo' often blends into one long word: 'pagarenefectivo'. Practice saying it quickly yourself so your ear learns to recognize the blended sounds.

Level Up with Synonyms

Once you master 'pagar', start sprinkling in words like 'abonar' (to pay an installment) or 'liquidar' (to pay off completely) when discussing finances. It instantly elevates your Spanish level.

The Golden Question

Before ordering in a small town or market, always ask '¿Se puede pagar con tarjeta?' (Can one pay with a card?). Assuming they take cards can lead to awkward situations if you don't have cash.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

Imagine you have to PAY a GUY named GAR. Pay-Gar -> Pagar.

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

Latin

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

In Spain, 'pagar a escote' or 'pagar a medias' is common among young people, meaning everyone pays their exact share or splits it evenly.

In Mexico, saying 'Yo disparo' is a slang way of saying 'I'll pay' or 'It's on me'.

In Argentina, 'pagar el derecho de piso' refers to the hardships a newcomer faces when starting a new job or entering a new group.

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"¿Prefieres pagar en efectivo o con tarjeta cuando vas de compras?"

"¿Alguna vez has tenido que pagar una multa de tráfico?"

"En tu cultura, ¿es común dividir la cuenta o una persona paga todo?"

"¿Qué es lo más caro que has pagado en tu vida?"

"¿Crees que en el futuro dejaremos de pagar con dinero físico?"

डायरी विषय

Escribe sobre la última vez que pagaste la cuenta en un restaurante. ¿Con quién estabas?

Describe cómo organizas tu dinero para pagar tus facturas cada mes.

¿Alguna vez pagaste por algo que resultó ser una estafa? Cuenta la historia.

Escribe tu opinión sobre pagar impuestos. ¿Crees que es justo?

Imagina que tienes que pagar una deuda enorme. ¿Qué harías para conseguir el dinero?

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

You must use 'por' when you are talking about an exchange of money for an item or service. For example, 'Pago por el libro' (I pay for the book). Using 'para' in this context is incorrect. You can also just use the direct object without a preposition: 'Pago el libro'.

In Spanish, the letter 'g' followed by 'e' or 'i' makes a soft sound, like the English 'h'. To keep the hard 'g' sound of the infinitive 'pagar', you must insert a silent 'u'. Therefore, 'pagué' is pronounced with a hard 'g', while 'pagé' would be pronounced incorrectly.

While you could technically say 'Yo pago por ti', it sounds a bit unnatural and transactional. Native speakers almost always use the verb 'invitar' in this social context. You should say 'Te invito' or 'Yo invito', which translates to 'I'm treating you' or 'It's on me'.

No, this is a very common false friend mistake. In Spanish, you do not 'pay' attention; you 'lend' it. The correct phrase is 'prestar atención'. Saying 'pagar atención' makes no sense in Spanish and will immediately mark you as an English speaker translating literally.

'Pagar' specifically refers to the act of giving money to settle a debt or buy something (to pay). 'Gastar' refers to the act of consuming resources or money (to spend). You 'pay' a bill (pagar la cuenta), but you 'spend' a lot of money at the mall (gastar mucho dinero).

The most common and natural way to ask this is '¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta?'. You use the preposition 'con' (with) for cards. If you want to ask about cash, you use 'en' and say '¿Puedo pagar en efectivo?'.

'Pagar el pato' literally translates to 'pay the duck'. However, it is a very common idiom that means to take the blame or suffer the consequences for something that you did not do, or for a mistake made by a group. It is similar to 'being the scapegoat'.

Yes, 'pagar' is completely regular in the present tense (pago, pagas, paga, pagamos, pagáis, pagan). However, it has an orthographic (spelling) change in the preterite 'yo' form (pagué) and throughout the entire present subjunctive tense (pague, pagues, etc.) to maintain pronunciation.

A 'pagaré' is a noun that means a promissory note or an IOU. It is a formal document stating a promise to pay a specific amount of money. Interestingly, it is spelled exactly the same as the first-person future tense of pagar ('yo pagaré' - I will pay), but the context usually makes the meaning clear.

'Pagar' is not typically used as a reflexive verb (pagarse) in daily conversation. However, it can be used in the passive reflexive form (se paga) to mean 'is paid'. For example, 'Aquí se paga bien' means 'One is paid well here' or 'They pay well here'.

सुझाव और नोट्स के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें